To: Winnefox Library System Board of Trustees

From: Jeff Gilderson-Duwe, Director

Date: 16 March 2006

Re: System vans

At the November meeting the board approved purchase of two new delivery vans from Gandrud Chevrolet in Green Bay at a cost of $15,540 each.

Unfortunately, Mark and John did not specify air conditioning in these vans. Had they done so when ordering the additional cost would have been $154 for each van.

I disagree with this decision and feel that air conditioning in the vans is important for several reasons:

• Our drivers are out on their routes for 8 or 9 hours most days, and they handle heavy tubs full of books at each stop. Air conditioning is important for their comfort and health.
• Our drivers represent Winnefox to library staff and the public. Air conditioning in the vans will allow them to present a better appearance on hot summer days.

Unfortunately GM does not sell parts for adding after-market air conditioning for this model. We looked into the possibility of adding a trailer or RV air conditioning unit but decided it would not be a satisfactory solution because of the expense of installing them and the reduction in gas mileage.

I recommend replacing these vans with ones of the same model equipped with air-conditioning. The new vans with air conditioning will cost $15,996 each. Gandrud will credit us with $14,500 for trade in of the unused vans. Although this transaction will cost the system $1,496 more for each van than was originally authorized, the cost will still be well below the $20,000 provided for in the van replacement budget.

Original Bid		Van With AC (03/2006)
Van Price Without AC	$15,540	Trade-In Credit	$14,500
AC Option	$ 154	Trade-In Penalty	$ 1,496
Bid Price for Van With AC	$15,694	Van Price with AC Option	$15,996